Organ donation is a critically important topic that can save lives and improve the quality of life for many individuals in need of organ transplants. However, misinformation and myths about organ donation can sometimes lead to misconceptions and reluctance to participate. It’s important to be aware about the facts surrounding organ donation to make informed decisions.
Dr. Elias Sharma, Head of Neurology at Jammu Medical College, discusses common misconceptions about organ donation in an exclusive interview with ET Edge Insights.
Firstly, could you please provide information about the associations with which you are affiliated?
Beyond my role as Head of the Department of Neurology, I serve as Nodal Officer for SOTTO (State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation), a central entity within the National Organ Transplant Programme overseeing regional networks. These bodies promote cadaveric organ donation in our densely populated nation. PGIMER in Chandigarh covers the northern region, while the apex body, NOTTO (National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation), is based at Safdarjung Hospital in New Delhi. Their shared aim is to bridge awareness gaps and facilitate cadaveric organ donation, which is crucial given the contrast between our population and countries like Spain. Their core message highlights the viability of organs even after brain death, offering the potential to save lives through transplants. This involves maintaining the deceased on life support while retrieving organs for transplant, benefiting those with heart, lung, kidney, liver, pancreas issues, and even eye tissues. Individuals can support this cause by pledging and raising awareness. Contacting relevant organisations and researching online can provide further insights into participating in and promoting organ donation efforts in India.
Could you clarify the myths and concerns surrounding organ donation in our country? Your insights might help in raising awareness and encouraging more individuals to consider organ donation.
It’s important to address several prevalent myths related to organ donation. People often express concerns that pledging their organs might lead to doctors prioritising organ retrieval over saving their lives in case of an accident. However, it’s crucial to clarify that the retrieval and transplant teams operate independently. Brain death determination and involvement of the transplant team only occur after exhaustive efforts to save the patient’s life have been made.
Another misconception revolves around the idea that possessing a pledge card automatically means organs will be taken without proper consent. It’s essential to emphasise that family permission remains a crucial requirement, even if the individual has previously pledged their organs.
Religious beliefs can also influence people’s decisions. Contrary to widespread misunderstandings, most religions actually endorse organ donation as a means to save and improve lives, rather than conflicting with their beliefs.
Addressing age-related concerns is vital too. It’s important to clarify that the suitability for organ donation depends on the health of the organs, not solely on chronological age. Healthy organs from an 80-year-old individual, for instance, can still be viable for donation.
Lastly, there’s a misconception that organs primarily go to those who are wealthy. This is far from the truth. The organ allocation process is impartial and based on factors like waiting lists and tissue matching. Monetary considerations play no role in this equitable allocation system.
With SOTTO actively promoting cadaveric organ donation, how do you envision the future? Are you optimistic about an increasing number of Indians pledging their organs?
Indeed, encouraging developments have taken place in certain states. States like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka have demonstrated commendable efforts and set inspiring examples with robust organisations and dedicated individuals working tirelessly to promote organ donation. These regions have achieved significant success in driving organ donation awareness and participation. Our mission has mainly been to bring the same to the North as well.
Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the audience regarding organ donation?
My message emphasises the concept, “Jeete jeete raktdaan, jaate jaate angdaan,” which means donating blood while alive and organs after passing away. Additionally, I want to highlight that these organs, as creations of God, should not go to waste through burial or cremation. Instead, consider donating them to offer the gift of life to others in need.
Dr. Sharma offered his thoughts during the Doctor’s Day Conclave 2023 in New Delhi